H2O(s) is an example of a(n):
a.Molecular Solid
b.ionic solid
c.Nonbonding atomic solid
d.Metallic atomic solid
e.Network covalent atomic solid
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is:
a. Molecular Solid
Explanation:
H₂O(s), or solid water, is an example of a molecular solid. Molecular solids are composed of molecules held together by intermolecular forces such as hydrogen bonds, dipole-dipole interactions, or Van der Waals forces. These forces are weaker than the covalent or ionic bonds found in other types of solids, and as a result, molecular solids tend to have lower melting and boiling points compared to ionic, covalent, or metallic solids.
In the case of H₂O(s), the solid form of water is commonly known as ice. The individual water molecules in ice are held together by hydrogen bonds. These hydrogen bonds occur because the oxygen atom in one water molecule is partially negatively charged, and the hydrogen atoms are partially positively charged, allowing them to interact with neighboring molecules. This hydrogen bonding is responsible for the unique properties of water, such as its relatively high melting and boiling points compared to other molecular compounds.
Let’s consider why H₂O(s) is not one of the other types of solids:
- Ionic solid (b): Ionic solids are made up of ions held together by strong electrostatic forces (ionic bonds). Water does not consist of ions; rather, it is composed of neutral molecules.
- Nonbonding atomic solid (c): These solids consist of atoms held together by weak dispersion forces. For example, noble gases like neon or argon form nonbonding atomic solids. Water does not consist of individual atoms; it consists of molecules.
- Metallic atomic solid (d): Metallic solids consist of metal atoms arranged in a lattice with free-moving electrons, known as the “electron sea.” Water is not composed of metal atoms and does not exhibit this characteristic.
- Network covalent atomic solid (e): Network covalent solids consist of atoms held together by covalent bonds in a continuous network, such as diamonds or quartz. Water molecules are not covalently bonded to form a network, but instead, they are held together by hydrogen bonds.
Thus, water in its solid form (ice) is best classified as a molecular solid due to the intermolecular hydrogen bonds between the water molecules.